Predictors and implications of medication non-adherence among psychiatric patients in Oman: A cross-sectional study

Mental health disorders significantly impact individual well-being and place a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. In Oman, enhancing medication adherence among patients with psychiatric disorders is crucial, as non-compliance can worsen symptoms and lead to increased hospitalizations. This study aims to identify the predictors of medication non-adherence among patients at a tertiary care facility in Oman.

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Al Masarra Hospital involving adult patients undergoing follow-up care for documented mental disorders. The Medication Adherence Rating Scale was used to assess medication adherence, while demographic and medical history data were collected through self-report. Descriptive statistics and linear regression were used to analyze the relationship between adherence and various factors.

Among the 151 participants, primarily aged between 26 and 45 years, the average medication adherence score was 5.71 (with a standard deviation of 2.45). Key predictors of non-adherence included marital status and treatment satisfaction, with unmarried individuals showing lower adherence levels. Interestingly, greater insight into one's illness correlated with lower adherence, whereas higher treatment satisfaction was associated with better adherence.

Medication non-adherence remains a significant challenge among psychiatric patients in Oman, influenced by psychosocial factors such as marital status, level of insight, and treatment satisfaction. Targeted interventions that address patient insight and enhance treatment engagement are essential for improving medication adherence and clinical outcomes.